Surgical Technologist

Description

Job title: Surgical Technologist

Position: PRN with call

Wage Rate: starting at $28.55 ( based on experience)

Position Summary

The Surgical Technologist is a vital member of the surgical team who possesses a strong understanding of surgical technology and surgical procedures. Assists in assembling required supplies and equipment needed to perform the surgical procedure. Hands instruments to surgeon, anticipates needs of the surgeon and team while surveying the operative field for breaks in contamination, patient safety issues, and maintains a safe environment for surgical staff. Maintains the sterile field during surgical procedures. Responsible for aspects of instrument care and sterilization. Participates in supply management. Documents and maintains a complete record of all sterilization as required by OR policy for the Cherry County Hospital and Clinic.     

Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• The technologist is responsible for gathering supplies for surgical procedures and assuring their case is patient ready
• Prepares operating room for surgical procedures as directed by the operating room manager and/or circulator by properly scrubbing in, setting up for procedures, and handing instruments to the surgeon  
• When not scrubbed in for a procedure, assists the current scrub and circulator in their respective duties while acknowledging and responding to the patient needs immediately when indicated or necessary
• Participates in “time out” procedures with complete attention and responsiveness
• Assists in monthly and daily cleaning; stocking of OR, DR, RR, ER, outpatient clinic, hall C-lockers, med room, and OB monitors
• Uses standard, approved technique for instrument wrapping, marking, and taping all instruments and packs
• Keeps proper and accurate records required for all activities in this department
• Responsible for instrument inspection, cleaning, and disinfecting. 
• Identifies instruments that need sharpening and/or repair and reports to OR manager these concerns
• Accurate use of current autoclave and Sterrad devices; follows protocols for initiating the correct cycle, properly loads and unloads instruments, performs daily and weekly testing
• Proficient in use of standard OR equipment including but not limited to bed, lights, endoscopic, arthroscopic and laparoscopic equipment
• Regularly checks, stocks, and reorders supplies as needed for all areas of responsibility
• Assist with formulating and reviewing central supply policies and procedures
• To stay current in this field, attends continuing education programs and staff meetings
• Ensures the confidentiality of patients’ medical, personal, and financial records is maintained
• Knowledgeable of and committed to practicing Corporate Compliance policies and procedures
• Complies with Cherry County Hospital personnel policies
• Performs other duties as assigned by OR Manager or Director of Nursing

Skills and Abilities Required

• Demonstrates intra-operative clinical competency, prioritization and problem-solving skills during implementation of direct patient care under the supervision of the registered nurse
• Responsible and dependable person
• Has a thorough knowledge of care of, sterilization, and use of instruments
• Knowledge of principles of asepsis and sterile technique
• Knows location and use of supplies used in the operating room
• Knows the meaning of each operative procedure and the operating surgeon’s preferences
• Understands the complete operation and care of the autoclave
• Knowledge of OR policies and procedures
• Knows what procedures to follow in case of an emergency
• Possesses personal qualities, which enable maintenance of good interpersonal relationships; examples of these are good judgment, understanding, loyalty, respect for the person as an individual, and empathy 
• Possession of poise and tact, uses good common sense in all situations charged with emotional overtones, ability to handle occasions which could arise in which tensions and anxiety are present
• Must be knowledgeable of state and federal confidentiality laws, including but not limited to HIPAA, and be familiar with and follow all policies, procedures and instructions regarding the privacy and security of protected health information applicable to the position.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Utilizes proper body mechanics for personal safety and the safety of others
• Physically demanding work involving standing for long periods of time, loading and unloading supplies, equipment and instruments up to 50 pounds
• Pushing and pulling motions and actions
• Positioning and operating surgical equipment, cleaning and mopping operating room, transferring, transporting patients to and from operating room via wheelchair or cart
• Repetitive use of hands, arms, and eyes could result in strain
• Environment requires working in close proximity with others in a clean favorable area
• Dexterity is needed to operate equipment and other tasks as required to meet patient care needs
• Must be able to physically and mentally meet patient needs in an expedient and efficient manner
• Working hours are flexible depending on surgery schedule and has a possibility of overtime hours and callbacks during evening hours and weekends
• Job regularly involves the potential for exposure to hazardous material such as contaminated body fluids, anesthetic gases, cold sterilization fluids, and other decontaminants                                                                                                                                 

Requirements

 Minimum Job Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited Surgical Technologist Program, or an on-the-job training program, sterile supply technician certification, preferred
• Must have current BLS certification